Colace Syrup

The active ingredient in Colace stool softener is docusate sodium. It works by reducing surface tension between the stool and the surrounding liquid, and thus softens the stool. As it is not a stimulant laxative, it will only stimulate natural bowel movement.

Follow all directions given to you by your doctor and read all documents provided, including the full Prescribing Information, FDA-Approved Product Labeling, Instructions for Use, and Medication Guide, before using Colace syrup. However, the following is a synopsis of the general guidelines for the use of Colace syrup:

• Adults and children over 12 should take 50 to 300 mg/day in single or divided doses.
• Children between 2 to 11 years old should take 50 to 150 mg/day in single or divided doses.
• Always use a graduated syringe or dosing cup to measure and administer this medication - do not use a kitchen tablespoon.
• Do not administer to a child under the age of 2 unless under the advice of a physician.
• Drink at least 6-8 glasses of water daily while experiencing constipation, to prevent dehydration.
• Do not take or give Colace syrup within two hours of another medicine, as this may reduce the effect of the other medicine.
• Take or give this medicine with a full glass of water, fruit juice, or infant formula to help minimize throat irritation and mask the bitter taste.

The most common side effects of Colace include:

• Stomach pain/ cramps.
• Throat irritation (liquid forms).
• Diarrhea.

Some individuals may experience serious side effects while using Colace syrup. These side effects may require immediate medical attention. If you experience any of the following, contact your healthcare provider or seek emergency medical help:

• Rectal bleeding
• Signs of an allergic reaction: tightness of the throat, hives, swelling of the face, tongue, or lips.
• You do not produce a bowel movement within 3 days of taking this medication.

These are not all of the possible side effects of Colace syrup. You should always seek medical advice from your healthcare provider for any questions or concerns about your medical condition or treatment. Read all patient information, medication guides, or drug information sheets that come with this medication. You can also report adverse effects to the Food and Drug Administration at www.fda.gov/medwatch or 1-800-FDA-1088.

Before starting Colace syrup, it is crucial to discuss any existing health conditions with your healthcare provider. You should be sure that your healthcare provider is aware of all your medical conditions, including whether you have:

• Presence of abdominal pain, nausea, or vomiting.
• Sudden change in bowel habits that lasts over two weeks.
• Appendicitis (or symptoms of it).
• Rectal bleeding.
• Congestive heart failure.
• Hypertension.
• Fecal impaction.
• Intestinal obstruction.

Docusate sodium should not be used for more than one week unless under the advice of a physician. It should not be given to children under the age of 6.

Known or suspected allergy to docusate sodium.

Colace should produce a bowel movement within 12 to 72 hours.

When Colace syrup is taken with other prescription drugs, over-the-counter medications, vitamins, and supplements, it may change how they work or increase the frequency or severity of side effects. Make sure that you tell your healthcare professional about anything that you are taking to avoid any negative drug interactions, including:

• When used with diuretics (furosemide, spironolactone) or potassium supplements, chronic or overuse of docusate sodium may reduce levels of potassium in your body.
• Colace should not be used with danthran, mineral oil, or phenolphthalein as it may increase absorption of these agents, and even lead to toxicity.

Colace syrup is available in concentrations of 60mg docusate sodium/15mL.

It should be stored at room temperature, in a light-resistant package, away from the reach of children or pets.

It is manufactured by Atlantis Consumer Healthcare Inc.

Yes, it is available over the counter (OTC) from several manufacturers of constipation relief products.

Colace should not be used for more than three days. You should stop taking it once you produce a bowel movement.

While it is not considered first-line for constipation during pregnancy, docusate sodium is considered safe during pregnancy. Talk to your doctor if you are already pregnant or if you have any plans to become pregnant. They will know or recommend what is best for you.

In general, it is considered safe during lactation, though other agents are preferred. Talk to your doctor if you are already breastfeeding or if you have any plans to breastfeed. They will know or recommend what is best for you.